Benin is a fairly small West African nation with lots of attractions. Rich in wildlife, ancient cities and urban scenes, you will be spoilt for choice. It’s also the origin of the voodoo religion. Here’s just some of what to look forward to as you pack your bags.
Benin was part of the Dahomey kingdom of the 1800s. Abomey (the capital of the Dahomey kingdom) is full of ruins of royal palaces and temples. As such, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a trip back in time, visit the Abomey Historical Museum located inside the royal palace. It’s a bit grisly though- there’s a throne made entirely of human skulls. It’s a testament to the brutality of the Dahomey kingdom during the slave trade era.
The lake town of Ganvie is fascinating, with houses built on stilts sticking out of the water. It’s one of the largest lake towns in West Africa. Situated on Lake Nokoué, Ganvie is home to 30,000 people who all live in stilt- elevated houses. Purchase some trinkets from the water market for souvenirs.
For more ‘modern’ shopping, swing by the Grand Marche du Dantopka in Cotonou. Stalls upon stalls stocking everything imaginable draw in tourists in droves. The elaborate labyrinth op pathways through the stalls can be a bit overwhelming, but add to the overall experience.
For nature lovers, Pendjari National Park awaits. Thundering waterfalls, breathtaking landscapes, lots of wildlife make this park in the northwest region of Benin ideal for escaping the hectic city life.
If you can stomach it, mingle with pythons at the Temple of the Sacred Python. Dangbe the serpent deity is considered sacred in many Benin cultures and as such, pythons are highly protected. The temple is maintained by priests of Dangbe. Visitors pay a fee to enter the temple, and another fee to have pictures taken with pythons draped over their shoulders.
